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I’ll make almost anything into a salad. There’s something deeply satisfying about the crunch of the greens and the warm toppings.

This salad was born one afternoon a week ago when I pulled the leftovers out of my fridge and threw some food together. It was so pretty I had to take a picture.

For those of you who must have a recipe, I’m sorry. This is what I call a toss-together meal. I look at what I have, think about what would taste good together, and toss it on a plate.

Lunch for one in 5 minutes or less.

Dressings…a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of lemon or lime, and fresh ground salt and pepper is my favorite stand-by. Once in a while when I want something with more umph I’ll mix up a yogurt and sour cream dressing seasoned with a few spices. For this, I’d use cumin and a little cayenne.

A Few Time Saving Tips

Make extra protein packed quinoa when you have it for a meal and freeze the leftovers in small portions. You can thaw it in your microwave in no time at all.

Freeze extra black beans, too. They’re not only tasty but full of fiber. I freeze them in their liquid in mason jars making sure to leave enough space for the liquid to expand.

Always keep fresh greens and a couple favorite veggies on hand. Always. You’ll have what you need to make a healthier salad or side dish.

Top your lovely greens with shredded jicima, quinoa, and black beans. Place butternut squash around the edge of the beans and quinoa – this adds some color interest and tastes great, too. Sprinkle with a tablespoon or so of pepitas.

Top with a complimentary dressing or a drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil, a squeeze of lime, and freshly ground salt and pepper to taste.

This looks so yummy Amy! Most of my cooking is done in this fashion, but over the years I have figured out to have my laptop in the kitchen when I am just “throwing something together” – so I can start typing the recipe as I go! LOL! I love squash and black beans together!

I think some of the very best meals are made this way, Amy. And, I actually like that there is no recipe … no need to get obsessive about having just the right amount of this or that, just throw together the amounts you have according to what looks like the right amounts and enjoy! All that said, I love this combo and will enjoy it the next time I make quinoa.

About Amy

Living free of refined sugars and gluten since 2004 has allowed me to live a fulfilled, healthy life. My food cravings, migraines, and depression vanished and was able to maintain a 60+ pound weight loss. Today I live with enormous freedom. Join me as I create healthier food that's SS&GF and delicious. I hope to help you do the same. Read more about my story here.